Computer Systems Technology

Program Overview

Computer systems technologists solve computer-related issues for businesses, government agencies, utilities, law enforcement agencies, health services providers, educational institutions and more. It’s a career that demands a unique blend of skills—computer literacy, technical know-how and communications savvy—but also lets you specialize in areas that interest you the most, including programming, software design, mobile application programming, data communications and web design.

The two-year Computer Systems Technology diploma is available full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus, with a number of courses also available through distance and/or continuing education. Comprehensive technical training gives you a solid foundation of theory and hands-on lab practice in:

designing, installing and managing local area networks

developing computer programs in various programming languages

developing interactive web pages with multimedia components

developing proficiency in several common computer application packages

installing and configuring computer hardware and software

performing systems analysis and design

programming apps for mobile devices (smart phones, tablets, etc.)

providing end-user technical support services

troubleshooting and repairing hardware problems

You’ll also learn business principles, project management and communication skills—attributes potential employers look for when hiring for IT personnel.

Diploma to Degree

Transfer agreements with the University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina and University of Lethbridge let you ladder into a computer science degree with two more years of study. It’s a great way to expand your career horizons, while leaving the door open to earn a living with your diploma.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of jobs: computer programmer, software designer/developer, mobile app programming, network analyst, webmaster, web designer and systems administrator. You also have a broad choice of work environments in the public and private sectors. You could work in the IT department of a large organization or be a one-person IT department for a small business. You could join a company that provides computer sales, installation and support for other businesses. Or you could set up your own IT business and work directly with clients.

Length and Start Date

Note: Some year 1 semester 1 courses are offered online. If you plan to take these courses online, ensure that you apply for admission to the program as you near their successful completion. You must meet all admission requirements (including English language proficiency) at that time. Tuition for the online delivery of courses is significantly higher, as costs must be recovered in full.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

International Students

Courses

Year 1 - Semester 1

You will study human behaviour in organizations and develop the skills needed to deal with people at work. Your studies include content on individual behaviour, values, interpersonal relationships and communications, groups and team dynamics, organizational culture, leadership, and change. You will study these aspects of human behavior within the context of diverse formal organizations.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Equivalent Course(s): ADMN 220CE, BUS 182Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

CNET 184

Data Communications and Networking 1

4

In this course you will describe the major networking technologies and systems of modern networks, and be able to configure, manage and troubleshoot modern networks. This course presents content required in the objectives of the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Equivalent Course(s): CAD 191, CNET 180, CNET 184CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

COAP 173

Data and Document Management

4

You will be introduced to a document management system used to create, retrieve and process unstructured data in a quick and efficient manner. You will learn about the functionality and features of document management. You will be introduced to data management concepts using an industry standard electronic spreadsheet. Your studies will focus on the appropriate application of an electronic spreadsheet with a focus on information management.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Equivalent Course(s): COAP 173CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COOS 181

Operating Systems

4

You will be provided with the knowledge and skills required to install and configure desktop computers and other devices in a Windows business environment. You will use curriculum and labs for Microsoft 70-698 Installing and Configuring Windows 10 course.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Equivalent Course(s): COOS 180, COOS 181CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COSC 180

Introduction to Programming

6

You will develop problem-solving skills through the use of detailed algorithms and be introduced to structured and object oriented design techniques. The course content includes standard program syntax, variable types, operators, input/output statements, decision and loop control structures, methods, encapsulation, instantiating and using objects. In addition the course will examine extending existing classes and creating interfaces for new classes.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Equivalent Course(s): COSC 180CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

CWEB 180

Web Site Development

4

You will learn how to use HyperText Markup Language (HTML) to develop Web pages for delivery over the World Wide Web. You will also learn how to plan and develop HTML documents to build a Web site based on W3 standards and enhance HTML documents using current techniques such as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) site management using current software.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Equivalent Course(s): CNET 191, CWEB 180CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CDBM 190

Introduction to Database Management

5

You will receive instruction and practice in using an industry standard database management application program. You will learn how to design queries, forms and reports to manage an underlying database. You will also create functions and procedures to add advanced functionality to the database management system.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 180Corequisites(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

You will enhance your network management and monitoring skills by using administrative tools to set up, manage and use basic network services (including directory services, server file systems, network printing and network security). You will learn how to set up and administer user accounts in an organization and make network services available to the users.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): COOS 181Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

COSA 190

Systems Analysis and Design

4

You will explore and apply the concepts required to analyze, design, create, install and document a systems project. You will be exposed to key project management concepts and practices. You will be introduced to an industry standard modeling graphical language.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 180Corequisites(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

COSC 190

Intermediate Programming

6

You will work with arrays and create recursive methods. You will utilize standard file input/output techniques. You will become familiar with and be able to manipulate such advanced data structures as stacks and queues. The course content includes introductory GUI development, thread-based programming, as builds towards an introduction of Network programming techniques.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 180Corequisites(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

You will be introduced to the basic principles of effective technical writing in the computer industry. The necessity of following company standards for documentation will be emphasized. You will review grammar and style, and learn technical formats and report design. The production of technical documentation for a variety of user groups will also be emphasized.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 45.0Prerequisites(s): BCOM 120Corequisites(s): Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 121, TCOM 103Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COSA 195

Systems Project

4

You will gain experience in small systems analysis, design and implementation. You will be assigned to groups and given the specifications for a software system. You will work together as a team to develop a working system for the client. Emphasis is on the software development process.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): CDBM 190, COSA 190, COSC 190Corequisites(s): CPMG 195Equivalent Course(s): COSP 191Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COSC 195

Mobile Application Programming

3

You will develop mobile application programs. Your studies will focus on the Android mobile environment and include an understanding of the mobile application development environment. You will develop simple and advanced mobile applications as well as understand mobile environment limitations and security issues with mobile applications. You will have an opportunity to publish mobile applications.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 40.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 190Equivalent Course(s): COSC 195CEPotential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CPMG 195

Systems Project Management

1

You will practice project management, documentation, meeting and presentation skills. As a contributor to a computer system development project, you will prepare for and participate in project meetings, prepare project management documentation, manage progress using project management techniques, maintain storage of project documentation and deliver a presentation on the project to the client.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 20.0Prerequisites(s): COSA 190, TCOM 190Corequisites(s): COSA 195Equivalent Course(s): COSP 190Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CWEB 195

Website Interface Design

2

You will plan and create a small website following current best practices. You will analyze website requirements. Using those requirements and following usability guidelines, you will design a site that works well on both desktop and mobile devices. You will apply responsive web design techniques as well as creating mobile-dedicated websites. You will choose and create appropriate media for website content.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 30.0Prerequisites(s): CWEB 190Equivalent Course(s): COMP 190Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CDBM 280

Database Management Systems

5

You will receive instruction and practice in planning, designing and accessing data in a relational database. You will study the theory behind relational databases, relational database nomenclature and optimizing database design through normalization. You will create queries and manipulate a relational database using standard SQL statements (including using SQL in a procedural environment to create procedures, functions and triggers). You will also explore report generation using queries.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Prerequisites(s): CDBM 190Corequisites(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COHS 280

Enterprise Systems Support

3

You will gain valuable expertise in assessing, documenting and responding to an assortment of help desk situations. You will acquire knowledge regarding computer deployment in an enterprise environment. You will also deploy antivirus software, monitor software license compliancy and perform network resource inventory in an enterprise environment.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 45.0Prerequisites(s): COHS 190Equivalent Course(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COSA 280

IT Development Project 1

3

You will study and employ the practical and theoretical concepts obtained in first year systems analysis and design courses by building an IT system. You will work as part of a development team on an IT problem for an external industry client. Your project will include the production and demonstration of functioning components of the system each release within deadlines set out in your project management documentation.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 45.0Prerequisites(s): CDBM 280(concurrent), CWEB 280(concurrent), COSA 195, CPMG 195Corequisites(s): CPMG 280Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COSC 286

Advanced Programming 1

5

You will study the use of predefined abstract data types and user defined abstract data types to improve program modularity. Your studies will include the design and implementation of abstract data types using object-oriented data structures. Topics will include alternative implementations of data structures and sorting techniques using interfaces, collections and iterators.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 190Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

You will learn the fundamentals of computer security. You will learn to recognize several areas of security attacks, examine current security measures and evaluate techniques to enhance existing measures. You will examine methods to maintain the integrity of an organizations network infrastructure and the day-to-day operations.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): CNET 184Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CWEB 280

Internet Programming/Web Applications 2

5

You will receive instruction and practice in the development of server-side Web applications. You will learn how to write scripts that allow remote users to interface with databases existing on a World Wide Web server. You will become familiar with Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Structured Query Language (SQL), and Ajax.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Prerequisites(s): CDBM 280(concurrent), COSC 190, CWEB 195Equivalent Course(s): COSC 293Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MATH 282

Mathematics of Computation

3

You will investigate the characteristics of discrete and continuous systems from a programming perspective and compare and contrast programming techniques required for dealing with discrete system data (Boolean values, integer numbers, and character data) with those for continuous system data (floating point numbers). You will also investigate the nature and propagation of error as a result of programming. You will explore number systems and programming techniques for solving simultaneous equations, integrating functions, finding roots, compressing data and encrypting data.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 45.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 190Corequisites(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

SEM 283

Seminar

1

You will learn about topics of interest in the computer technology field from speakers representing various companies in industry.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 15.0Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COOS 291

Advanced Operating Systems

5

You will learn to work with both the command line and graphical interfaces of the Linux operating system. In addition you will learn about the file system, shell programming, system and network administration. Special emphasis will be placed on learning about Linux networks and telecommunications studies.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Prerequisites(s): COOS 181Equivalent Course(s): COOS 280Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COOS 293

Systems Administration 2

4

You will study advanced network administration skills by managing network servers and services. You will study how to oversee a complex network environment and learn how to configure numerous network services with a variety of administrative tools. You will use Microsoft Official Academic Course (MOAC) curriculum and training materials. On completion of this course, you will have covered the learning objectives required in the Microsoft 70-411 certification exam. The Computer Systems Technology program does not provide exams for Microsoft certification.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): COOS 190 or CNET 190Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COOS 294

Enterprise Server Administration

4

You will study administration skills for specialized enterprise level servers. You will then learn how to perform ongoing configuration and management of the servers.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): COOS 190 or CNET 190Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COSA 290

IT Development Project 2

6

You will continue your work as part of a development team on an IT problem for an external industry client that was started in COSA 280. Your project will include the production and demonstration of functioning components of the system each released within deadlines set out in your project management documentation. You will present the final product to the client.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Prerequisites(s): COSA 280, CDBM 280, CPMG 280Corequisites(s): CPMG 290Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

You will study basic iOS application development for Apple mobile devices and cross platform development that works on Android and Apple devices. Your studies will include an introduction to a programming language required to create applications for iOS mobile devices. Also, you will utilize a cross platform development tool to create a mobile application that can run on multiple platforms.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 60.0Prerequisites(s): COSC 195Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CPMG 290

IT Development Project Management 2

2

You will continue your project management work from CPMG 280. You will continue to improve your project management, documentation, meeting and presentation skills. As well, you will make use of project monitoring techniques. As a contributor to a computer system development project, you will prepare for and participate in project meetings, prepare project management documentation, adapt project management processes as required, manage progress using project management techniques, manage storage of project documentation and deliver a presentation on a project.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 30.0Prerequisites(s): COSA 280, CPMG 280Corequisites(s): COSA 290Equivalent Course(s): TCOM 290Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

TCOM 291

Career Path Search

1

You will prepare a career path portfolio based on your accumulated skills, qualifications and accomplishments. You will prepare your resume and cover letter to target an IT job posting. In a simulated job interview, you will answer behavioural questions and demonstrate the use of a career path portfolio.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 15.0Equivalent Course(s): JOBS 288, TCOM 295Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COET 295

Emerging Technologies

3

You will study the subject of new/emerging technologies, and you will examine how these technologies can change existing markets and development environments. You will gain experience in working with software and/or hardware that can be classified as part of the emerging technology paradigm.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 50.0Prerequisites(s): COHS 280, COOS 293, COSC 292, COSC 295, CWEB 280Equivalent Course(s): Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COOS 295

Systems Administration 3

3

You will study the advanced configuration of services necessary to deploy, manage and maintain a Windows Server infrastructure in an enterprise. You will learn such skills as fault tolerance, certificate services, advanced file services, advanced access control, and identity federation. You will use Microsoft Official Academic Course (MOAC) curriculum and training materials. After completing the course, you will be prepared to write the Microsoft 70-412 certification exam. The Computer Systems Technology program does not provide exams for Microsoft certification.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 50.0Prerequisites(s): COOS 293 or CNET 293Equivalent Course(s): CNET 295Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CSEC 295

Security Topics

3

You will learn various attack and defense methodologies. While exploring current and emerging security topics you will learn how computer security affects businesses and business data. You will be introduced to the protection of an organizations assets, intellectual property and employees as well as methods for maintaining business continuity.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 50.0Prerequisites(s): COHS 280, COOS 293, COSC 292, COSC 295Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.
A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

block transfer of 54 credits toward the Computer Science degree program, University of Saskatchewan (You can complete the degree in two years)

transfer of credit for the first two years toward Computer Science degree programs at the following universities may be recognized: University of Regina, University of Lethbridge and Athabasca University

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

Accreditation

The Canadian Information Processing Society accredits the program, which means your education is recognized across Canada. Saskatchewan Polytechnic is also a member of the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA), which ensures that you’re learning on the most current software.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 28,000 distinct students through applied learning opportunities at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.